Question

In a well-written paragraph, analyze the effect of first-person point of view on the short story "The Pit and the Pendulum"

Answer 1

The story "The Pit and the Pendulum" was written by Edgar Allan Poe and published in 1842. The story describes the experiences of a man who has been condemned to torture by the Spanish Inquisition. One of the main characteristics of this story is the fact that it is told from a first-person point of view. This allows the reader to gain insight into the mind and the feelings of the protagonist. Moreover, it allows for vivid descriptions that emphasize the senses, particularly that of sound. Through these strategies, Poe is successful in creating fear in the mind of the reader.

Answer 2

The effect of first-person point of view on the short story "The Pit and the Pendulum", by Edgar Allan Poe, is that of a first-person shooter video game: all that goes on the screen seem to be more real than in third-person. It gives the reader a proximity with the character, making him or her be sympathetic for the poor man who is about to be torn into pieces. There are accurate and realistic descriptions of the whole process, and a lot of suspense as the pendulum gets closer. The first-person narration makes it more realistic for the reader in the sense of him or her being more able to put himself or herself in the character's shoes. A first-person point of view usually has the effect of making events and characters seem closer to the reader, as if it were a friend talking to him or her.